One of the unique features of the State is that a majority of the tribal population in Meghalaya follows a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are traced through women. The Khasi and Jaintia tribesmen follow the traditional matrilineal norm, wherein the "Ka Khadduh" (or the youngest daughter) inherits all the property and acts as the caretaker of aged parents and any unmarried siblings. However, the male line, particularly the mother's brother, may indirectly control the ancestral property since he may be involved in important decisions relating to property including its sale and disposal. The tribal people of Meghalaya are therefore a part of what may be the world's largest surviving matrilineal culture. According to India 's National Family Health Survey, Meghalaya is the state where parents have shown the least interest to have a male child -- 73% less than the national average.

Food:
Local people here are fond of Jadoh- a nourishing biriani clone- prepared with pork, rice and affection. Pukhlein is a bland rice- cake relished with piping hot tea while Ktungrymbai is a pungent mix of fermented beans and spices that adds the flavour to the simplest meal or festive spread. A deep affection for the betel leaf taken with a piece of raw arecanut along- with a rub of lime and a wee slice of ginger …it is only the tourists' fate to have a taste of this!

People:
Meghalaya is the home of three Mongoloid tribes – the Khasis, the Jayantias and the Garos. All the three have a matrilineal social system in which the family lineage is taken for the mother's side.

Generally people here are short in stature with muscular bodies and highly developed calves. Khasis and Jayantias are light brownish in colour, whereas the Garos are slightly darker. They have narrow eyes, broad- high cheek and flat noses. They are cheerful and hospitable. The ladies proudly continue the tradition of ethnic sartorial elegance.

Art and Craft / Dress and Design:
In some Jaintia and Garo villages, engravings of the figures of men and animals are found on the house walls. Near Jowai, the carvings of a lover and his beloved are seen which evoke acclaim even today for artistry and ingenuity in designing. The Garo women are expert in weaving. Dakmandes, a kind of women's wear, are well decorated with depictions of beautiful flowers and butterflies, in various colour combines. Baskets, sleeping mats, winnowing fans, rain shields manufactured out of plaited bamboo and cane are found in the rural areas. Jaintia fishing traps made of bamboo sticks are also noted for functional beauty. The cane bridges hanging over quick-flowing streams also testify to the superb craftsmanship of the Khasis and Jaintias. The non- Christian Garos erect memorials for the dead. Those are actually statues engraved in wooden posts, in the shape, form and facial resemblance of the deceased. The original house- types are found in some of the interior villages.